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Residents urge limits on data centers, higher county wages; commission backs Purple Heart recognition
Summary
Public commenters urged the commission to oppose data centers over water/energy concerns and to raise county wages; commissioners expressed support for a Purple Heart County proclamation for July.
Several residents used the public comment period to press the commission on development, pay and veterans’ recognition.
Gina Martin told commissioners she is aware of "at least three separate data AI centers that are interested in looking for property in our county" and argued the county lacks the water and energy resources to support such projects. She also urged flat wage increases for county employees — "stated amounts of 5 to 10,000 for everyone" — to retain skilled staff and avoid losing trades critical to county operations.
Commissioners responded to veteran‑related remarks with support. Commissioner Gary introduced Bill Simkins, who described efforts to add jurisdictions to the Purple Heart Trail and noted Farmington recently became a Purple Heart city. Gary proposed preparing a proclamation in July to recognize San Juan County as a Purple Heart County; commissioners expressed willingness to pursue the recognition.
During a separate public comment, Joe Hover asked the commission to reconsider its own comment rules and called for oversight and due process in response to a high‑profile criminal justice matter. The commission did not take formal action on the public comments at the meeting but acknowledged the concerns.
The commission and staff did not adopt new policies during the meeting; several speakers asked staff and elected officials to follow up.
